Protective effect of Camellia sinensis against γ-HCH-induced reproductive toxicity in Wistar rats

A wide number of pesticides, including highly persistent organochlorine compounds, such as gamma-Hexachlorocyclohexane (γ- HCH), have deteriorative effect on fauna and flora by inducing oxidative stress. Camellia sinensis, popularly known as green tea rich in polyphenols content, plays an important role in human health by virtue of its antioxidant properties. In the present study, protective effects of C. sinensis against the toxic effects of γ-HCH on sexually mature Wistar rats were investigated. The rats were divided in four groups viz. control (untreated), γ-HCH (20mg/kg bwt), γ-HCH (20mg/kg bwt) plus C. sinensis (100mg/kg bwt) and C. sinensis alone (100mg/kg bwt). γ-HCH-induced gross and microscopic alterations in testes were characterized by atrophy, distorted seminiferous tubules, disorganized spermatogonia, spermatocyte cells, sparse leydig cells, loss of spermatozoa (oligospermia) and interstitial edema. These changes were restored near to normalcy by C. sinensis. The results suggested that C. sinensis has protective effect against γ-HCH induced reproductive toxicity.